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New Year Thailand holidays
Thailand has something for everyone at this time of year, whether it's discovering a mesmerising tropical seascape, pristine beaches or immersing yourself in the multitude of cultural traditions the country has to offer.
Unlike the rest of the world, Thailand celebrates the New Year on three different occasions: usually when midnight strikes on 31 December, the dark blue sky lights up with vibrant fireworks; during Chinese New Year, which usually runs from January to February; and most importantly, during the official Thai New Year celebration, Songkran, which takes place in April.
New Year holidays to Thailand
New Year traditions in Thailand
The Thai New Year is accompanied by joyous and splendid moments of happiness and purity. The Thai New Year is known as Songkran, which generally takes place between 13 and 15 April, around the same time as the Catholic Easter holiday.
Songkran is famous for its national water fight, which locals take part in to start the year. Buckets, water pistols and even water hoses (we're not exaggerating) are all on hand to drench others in water and purify themselves for the year ahead. Wherever you are in the country, prepare to be drenched in purity.
Thais also visit their sacred temples to pay homage to Buddha. This ritual consists of pouring perfumed water over the statues in a gesture of purification and renewal, supposed to bring them luck and blessing.